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Atlantic Technological University student wins major award at the Interior Educators National Student Awards
ATU Interior Architecture student, Lui Ann Dam recently won an award at the Interior Educators (IE) Awards. Lui, a second-year student on the BA (Hons) Interior Architecture and Design programme was successful in the “Creative Re-Use 2025 (Progressing Student)” category, which recognises outstanding projects that demonstrate a strategic and thoughtful approach to transforming an existing building
ATU Interior Architecture student, Lui Ann Dam recently won an award at the Interior Educators (IE) Awards. Lui, a second-year student on the BA (Hons) Interior Architecture and Design programme was successful in the “Creative Re-Use 2025 (Progressing Student)” category, which recognises outstanding projects that demonstrate a strategic and thoughtful approach to transforming an existing building. The winners were revealed at the awards event in Clerkenwell, London on 10 July.
The judges were impressed with Lui Ann Dam’s Courtyard Hostel design which envisions a thoughtful restoration of the Old Savoy Cinema site in Sligo, to reimagine it as a vibrant hostel that not only provides comfortable accommodation for all but also a dynamic cultural space for a new generation.
Once the beating heart of the neighbourhood, The Old Savoy has long been a place where people came together to share a singular passion-the movies. Built in the 1890s, the historic venue served as a vibrant hub of social connection and artistic expression. More than just a building, the Savoy was a gathering place where stories came to life and friendships were formed in the flickering glow of the screen.
Interior Educators (IE) is an organisation established by academics representing several well-established Interior Design / Interior Architecture programmes. Founded by Graeme Brooker at Manchester School of Art in 2006, IE now represents more than 50 Higher Education institutions, teaching almost 3,000 students across the UK and Ireland.
The annual IE National Student Awards shine a spotlight on the achievements of undergraduate Interior Design programmes, showcasing exceptional work produced in 2025. As in previous years, the awards align with IE’s core values of social equity, inclusivity, diversity, sustainability, craft, writing for design, and collaboration.
Speaking from Taiwan where she is currently on her student placement, Lui Ann Dam said: “The Hostel+ project encompasses the celebration of connection, creativity, and inclusivity. Designed with flexibility, natural materials, and open layouts, the hostel accommodates diverse users and balances social interaction with personal retreat. Central features such as the courtyard and double-height function hall provide greenery, openness, and dynamic spaces for cultural events and communal activities; transforming the Old Savoy Sligo into a welcoming place where culture and community can thrive.”
Delighted to hear of Liu’s success, Claire Lorusso, Programme Chair Interior Architecture and Design at ATU said: “We are incredibly proud of Lui’s success at this year’s Interior Educators awards. A significant achievement for a second-year student, which is a testament to Lui’s hard work and all those who helped guide her.”
